Recently, I embarked on the breathtaking Transalpine Rail trip between Christchurch and Greymouth, a journey renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich history. However, it was not just the majestic mountains and lush valleys that captured my attention; it was a haunting tale that accompanied the ride, one that has lingered in my mind long after the train pulled into Greymouth.
As the train chugged along the tracks, the onboard commentary shared an intriguing story of a ghost that is said to wander the Old Coach Road, a historic route that once served as a Cobb & Co coach track. This spectral figure, often described as a male ghost, is believed to be a Scotsman who met a tragic fate during the construction of the Otira Tunnel, a monumental engineering feat that spans 8.5 kilometers through the Southern Alps.
According to the tale, this ghostly figure is frequently spotted walking with his swag along the Old Coach Road, always heading eastward. It is thought that he is trying to reach Lyttelton, yearning to catch a ship that would take him back home. The image of a weary traveler, forever bound to the road he once traversed in life, is both poignant and eerie.
The Old Coach Road, which runs alongside the railway tracks for part of the Transalpine journey, is steeped in history. It served as a vital transport route in the 19th century, connecting remote areas and facilitating the movement of goods and people. Today, it stands as a reminder of the past, and for some, a gateway to the supernatural.
Over the years, various travelers and locals have reported sightings of the ghost between Arthurs Pass, Bealey, and Cass. Each account adds to the lore, painting a picture of a restless spirit who continues to roam the landscape, perhaps searching for closure or simply reliving the journey he once took.
As I gazed out the window at the breathtaking scenery, I couldn’t help but wonder if I might catch a glimpse of this wandering spirit. The mountains loomed large, and the valleys stretched wide, but the thought of a ghostly figure walking along the Old Coach Road added an unexpected layer of intrigue to the journey.
Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the story of the Scotsman on the Old Coach Road is a captivating reminder of the rich tapestry of history that surrounds us. It invites us to reflect on the lives that have come before and the stories that linger in the shadows of our landscapes.
So, if you ever find yourself on the Transalpine Rail trip, keep your eyes peeled and your heart open. You never know what tales the road might whisper or what spirits might be wandering just out of sight. Happy travels, and may your journeys be filled with both adventure and a touch of the mysterious!